Serpentinisation is the process of water reduction of Fe bearing minerals. 

  • Serpentinisation of mafic rocks (Fe + H2O = Fe2O4 + H2)

  • This process can happen anywhere from mid-ocean ridges to continental ophiolites in fold belts

  • It mainly Olivine but can also happen to a lesser extent with Biotite in granites

  • Process is alkaline so groundwater chemistry can be a method to identify process

  • The process of serpentinization is a relatively fast process

 

“Lost City” MOR hydrothermal spring, 50-70% H2.  Seawater interactions with fresh basalt

“Blue Pool” alkaline springs, Oman. Bubbles in springs 40-85% H2.

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